Healthy Kids Day 2012

Each year, the YMCA celebrates Healthy Kids Day, its initiative to improve the health and well-being of families across the country. This year, Healthy Kids Day is on Saturday, April 28. Healthy Kids Day encourages parents to make ‘play dates’ with their kids every day as a simple way to become a healthier, more active, and connected family.

This year’s focus is on parents and children committing to “Take on Summer.”  For many kids, summer is a time of active play and exploration. But for others, exposure to activities that stimulate the mind and body ends with the school year. In fact, research shows that kids are more prone to gain weight and fall behind in studies over the summer months.

As part of the Y’s commitment to strengthen communities by addressing critical gaps in health and education, Healthy Kids Day 2012 will encourage parents and kids to commit to keeping their body and mind active throughout the summer.

Here are some tips to ensure your child stays in top shape, both physically and mentally over the long days of summer:

  • Research day camps or other activities in your area you can register your child for during the summer that will keep them socializing and active. Avoid crowding in too many activities, but registering your child for a few week-long camps may just be the structure they need.
  • Set up daily time limits on how long your child can spend watching television, playing video games, or surfing the Internet. Not only will this free up time for more active play outside, but it will also keep your child’s mind from getting dulled from countless hours staring at a screen.
  • Encourage your kids to come up with their own activities and be enthusiastic about their ideas. Taking day trips to local parks or nearby attractions is a great way to keep kids entertained as the summer drags on. And don’t forget to invite your kids’ friends as well — and maybe those parents will return the favor the next week.

For more information about Healthy Kids Day 2012, contact the McKinney YMCA:

300 Ridge Road
McKinney, Texas 75070
(972) 529-2559
www.mckinneyymca.org

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